If you’re wondering whether to use a dummy – also known as a soother or pacifier –we have the pros and cons
Have you ever noticed how dummies spark strong opinions among parents? Some swear by their magical ability to soothe a little one when they’re unsettled or crying, while others warn against their potential drawbacks. It can be tough to know whose advice to follow.
Baby sleep consultant Charmian Mead (@thesleepingbabyroutine) says the choice is entirely yours.
“A dummy can help to settle your baby to sleep, but you certainly don’t need to use one," Charmian advises. "Keep in mind that some babies may not even accept a dummy.”
“If you decide to use a dummy and it works for you, always follow the product’s safety guidelines. Don’t be tempted to dip it into something sweet like juice to encourage your baby to take it,” she adds.
When to give your baby a dummy
If you’re breastfeeding, it's best to wait until your baby has established a good feeding routine, which usually takes about four weeks. Check with your midwife or health visitor if you’re not sure. Once you feel confident that your baby is feeding well, you can start using a dummy alongside breastfeeding.
How to introduce a dummy
The first time you offer your baby a dummy, wait until after a feed when they are calm and full. Make sure the dummy is sterilised, then gently touch your baby’s mouth with the teat. You could even try stroking your baby’s cheek to help guide them to suck it. If your baby repeatedly refuses the dummy, don’t force them to take it. If you’d like to, you can try again another time or opt for a different dummy. Find our range of dummies here.
The advantages of dummy use
Regular dummy use at the start of sleep may reduce the risk of SIDS (also known as sudden infant death syndrome or cot death) although the NHS says the evidence is not strong. Breastfeeding and following safer sleep guidelines such as not smoking and placing your baby to sleep on their back will also lower the risk of SIDS.
Sucking on a dummy helps to comfort your baby. Babies are born with a natural sucking instinct which slowly diminishes after the age of one. Sucking is very soothing to your little one, so a dummy can provide comfort when they’re distressed or trying to fall asleep.
Parent talk: “I used a dummy once breastfeeding was established”
“After about six weeks of breastfeeding, my nipples were sore. My health visitor suggested offering my baby a dummy. She was latching on well, but I just needed her to suck on something else occasionally to help me heal. The dummy didn’t affect feeding and was a big help.” Lara Costello, mum to Jessie, 4 months
The disadvantages of dummy use
Dummies may pick up germs which could cause an infection or tummy upset, so keeping them clean is important. Sterilise them regularly and have spare ones on hand in case they get dropped on the floor.
With a dummy in their mouth, it’s harder for your baby to babble or chat as much as they would without one, so speech could be delayed. “Don’t offer the dummy during awake time,” says The Lullaby Trust.
Parent talk: “Our baby loved his dummy a bit too much!”
“When our baby was five months old, we went away for the weekend and forgot to bring any dummies with us. It was late so we couldn’t do an emergency dash to the shops, and he cried for hours and hours before finally falling asleep. We decided to wean him off the dummy shortly afterwards!” Nadiya Khan, mum to Omar, 8 months
What type of dummy is best for my baby?
There are many different types and shapes of dummies to choose from, but most have a recommended age range: newborn dummies are usually softer and smaller, while dummies for older babies and toddlers are more durable. Many dummies are developed with orthodontists to promote healthy teeth and jaw development and may be designed to mimic the mother’s nipple for a natural feel. If you're bottle-feeding, using a dummy from the same brand as the bottle can be helpful: the teats are often similar making it easier for your baby to transition between the two.
Charmian Mead is known as the Baby Sleep Expert. She is the author of 7pm to 7am Sleeping Baby Routine. You can find Charmian on herwebsite and Instagram.
